Welcome to the Corner of Quirky and Kinky Where You'll Fall in Love Every Time You Open a Book

Archive for the category “Giveaway”

This post is a bit late. My actual ten year publishing anniversary was on March 30th, and I’d planned to do a giveaway to celebrate. However, my mother-in-law died the day before, and understandably, I just didn’t feel like celebrating anything. I was just trying to make it through the visitation and funeral and hold it together for my husband. And though we miss her, we’re comforted by the fact that she was ready and she’s no longer in pain.

While my MIL wasn’t a romance fan–she prefered “spy thrillers”–she was very proud of me. And my husband pointed out recently that she’d be pissed if she knew I was blowing off my anniversary, so here I am…with a celebratory giveaway.

On March 30th, 2007, Ellora’s Cave (before it became the utter train wreck it was to become) published my first novel. And now, ten years and twenty-eight days later, I’ve had 32 published novels and novellas, 72 flash fiction stories, and 988 blog posts (not including guest posts).

I know I’m not as prolific as some, but I am pleased with what I’ve managed to accomplish in the last 10 years. I think that women are sort of societally programed to downplay their accomplishments. (See? I did it right there in the opening of this paragraph. Damnit, Bron! But you know what? I’m leaving it, because it proves my point.)

We’re conditioned not to be too proud of things we’ve done lest people think we’re bragging or too full of ourselves. But fuck that! Women’s accomplishments are just as valid as men’s. No offence to any men who might be reading this, but this whole downplaying of accomplishments definitely skews toward women.

So, to celebrate ten exciting and tumultuous years in this business, I’m going to give away my four print ARCs from the Bound series that I write with my girl Jessica Jarman, as well as some swag, to the grand prize winner. I’ll also be giving away a few other print books and more swag to other winners. All you need to do to enter is comment on this post and tell me about your accomplishments that you’re most proud of–no matter how big or how small. Let’s celebrate each other!

Please either leave your email address with your comment or email me at bronwyn@bronwyngreen.com with a copy of your comment so I can reach you if you win. Everyone has an equal opportunity to win, and winners will be chosen old school (my kids picking entries from a hat) because rafflecopter hates my blog. Contest closes at 10 PM EST on May 1st.

To celebrate one of my favorite stories I’ve ever written, (I seriously love Rory and Tristan), I thought I’d share the first chapter and have a little giveaway. To be entered, comment below, and for extra entries, please share on Twitter!

Here’s my inspiration for Rory…

Dear god…Hugh Dancy.

*sigh*

Wait…I was supposed to be doing something. Right. The giveaway post.

Chapter One of Drawn that Way

Tristan Weaver slid the finished survey across the break room table to her friend, Clover.

Tris shrugged. “Why not? It’s true. I haven’t seen a single female character come out of this company that wasn’t drawn like the average uni boy’s wank fantasy. Giant, gravity-defying boobs, waists so small they couldn’t possibly hold up those chests and giant bubble arses—all I’m suggesting is a little diversity. A more realistic view of women in video games. I don’t think that’s too much to ask.”

She leaned forward, warming to the subject. “And, while they’re at it, they could give them some armor. All the male characters have full protection. The best a female character gets is maybe a crop-top-style breastplate and a Xena skirt. That tells me they’re there for visual interest for men—not as viable characters.”

“Hey, now. There are some girls,” Clover said, pointing at herself, “who dig a scantily clad female as much as any guy.”

Tris smiled. “I know, but don’t you get tired of having one ideal shoved down your throat all the time?”

Clover nodded, her pink and purple pigtails bouncing. “I do, but I’m just worried about expressing that opinion here. I’m not saying you’d be fired for having a differing view, but you haven’t been here that long, and it could make things difficult. Jobs are hard to come by, right now.”

“Yeah…I know.” Tris hadn’t even been working there for six months, and she had a metric crap-ton of student loans to pay off. She couldn’t afford to lose her job. Of course, her parents kept telling her they’d pay off her loans if she’d move back to Wales. But the whole point of getting her citizenship when

her student visa expired was to stay in the States. She sighed, weighing her options. “But, we were asked for our input on the new game storyboard and artwork. Brecken Games definitely has a type.”

“More like Rory Brecken definitely has a type. Did you see the parade of models he interviewed last month?” Clover laughed and took a swallow of her Coke.

“Well, the last one must have been the winner. She was still here at midnight when I left that evening. And, judging from the noises I heard on my way out, she was winning in more ways than one.”

“Oh, please…with him? Seriously?”

Clover’s eyes widened. “There’s a reason he only uses one model per character. Apparently, he ends up banging a lot of them during photo shoots, and from what I’ve heard, he doesn’t do relationships.”

“Well, that I can see. The guy barely speaks. I mean, he’s good looking in that distracted artist kinda way, and he’s got that intense, nerdy thing going on. But I just don’t see women falling all over him.”

Tris could admit to herself that she found him vaguely attractive and weirdly compelling, but he was definitely not her type. She preferred her guys clean-cut and ripped—footballers were more her speed. Rory was none of those things, but he still made her stomach flip if she thought too much about him. He had dark, wavy hair that almost always looked as if it was a month past needing a haircut, a closely trimmed beard and black-frame glasses that made him look like a cross between a disgruntled hipster and a disapproving professor. It was the disapproving professor vibe that often had her squirming in her seat.

Her friend scooted closer, drawing Tris’ attention away from her sudden need for alone time. “Just telling you what I’ve heard. Oh, and I guess he’s a little kinky, too.”

“He is not,” Tristan said, stifling a snort. That was pushing the boundaries of her belief a little too far. However, now, the disapproving

professor fantasy was back full-force. And, thanks to Clover planting that perverse little seed in her head, Tris suspected she was going to need some quality time with her detachable showerhead, tonight.

Clover just nodded.

“What kind of kinky?” Before Clover could answer, Tris held up her hand. “You should know that if you tell me feather ticklers, blindfolds, whipped cream and strawberry syrup, I’m going to be severely disappointed in your idea of kinky.”

She’d been disappointed in a former boyfriend’s idea of kinky, too. When she’d suggested they try something a little edgier in the bedroom, she hadn’t anticipated ending up with a yeast infection and having her favorite sheets stained.

The other woman rolled her eyes, and was that a blush coloring her cheeks? “The things I’ve heard from some of the models are way more hardcore than feathers.”

“Like what?” Just once, she’d like to try something that was a sharp left from Vanillaville. It wasn’t that she objected to conventional sex—good sex was good sex. But some days, she wanted something more. Something a little different. As her dirty Tumblr would certainly attest. Taking a deep breath, Tris sat back in her chair, took a sip of coffee, and tried not to sigh as she waited for Clover to spill.

When the other woman didn’t elaborate right away, Tris continued, “So, what…how intense are we talking? Spanking? Flogging? Bondage?”

Clover cleared her throat. “They’ve all been mentioned.”

Crossing her legs, Tristan took another swallow of coffee and hoped to dull the damp ache pulsing between her thighs. God, she needed to get laid. It had been far too long. For just a minute, she tried to imagine the practically pathologically reserved Rory Brecken doing any of the things she’d just listed, but D/s sex and the owner of Brecken Games didn’t belong in the same sentence—let alone the same thought.

Her friend tilted her head to the side and stared at her.

“What?”

“Just wondering what you’re thinking.” Clover twirled one of her brightly colored pigtails around her finger.

“I dunno. I can’t see it. I can’t even imagine him talking dirty to a woman, let alone tying one up.”

The sound of feet scuffling at the door dropped Tris’ stomach to the vicinity of the floor, and she whirled to look behind her.

Fucking hell. Rory Brecken stood in the doorway holding a folder and his ever-present travel mug. How long had he been standing there? How much had he heard?

He nodded at Clover then turned to Tris and nodded at her, too, pinning her with his steady gaze. If he knew what they’d been talking about, he gave no indication, just broke eye contact and moved into the break room and slid his mug under the spout of the coffee maker.

Both women stood. “I should get back to that code,” Clover muttered. “It’s not gonna write itself.”

As she left the room, Tris discreetly folded the survey in half and headed for the door.

“Tristan?”

In the nearly empty room, his voice seemed to resonate, sounding a little rough, as if he didn’t use it often. Hearing her name in that gravelly tone sent shivers along her spine. She hoped like hell he hadn’t noticed.

Pasting on a smile she wasn’t close to feeling, she turned around. “Yes?”

He stared at her for what couldn’t have been more than a few seconds, but it was long enough to convince her that he’d heard every word they’d said about him. Her stomach lurched as her nerves rioted with anxious regret. She and Clover had no right to discuss his personal life. What he did or didn’t do with his character models was none of their business, and she felt like an arsehole for prying.

She was about to say as much when his gaze dropped to the table then lifted back to hers. “You forgot your coffee.”

EDIT: I had planned this to be a Rafflecopter giveaway but WordPress and Rafflecopter are not playing nicely at all. So…here’s the deal.

Please continue commenting. Rafflecopter will count those entries even though the widget isn’t showing up.

If you also choose to tweet it, please use @Bronwyn_Green in your tweet so I can include your tweets in a second drawing for people who are tweeting. Same for people who are sharing on Facebook. Please tag me in your post so I can put your name in the secondary drawing.

The lovely Victoria Blisse invited me to take part in her annual Blissemas celebration, so obviously, I jumped on that. We’re all sharing holiday stuff, excerpts from our books and we’re giving away a Kindle Paperwhite – stuffed with smut, of course! So be sure to comment on this post to enter!

I just recently did a post on favorite holiday traditions filled with craftiness, but one thing I forgot to share is one of my favorite holiday recipes. So, I’ll share that with all the Blissemas, peeps!

My Grandma emigrated to the States from Wales after WWII. She met and married my Grandpa who was an American soldier stationed in Cardiff. One of the things she brought with her (besides the best knitting skills I’ve ever seen) was the recipe for Welsh Cakes. She’d make them for all the major holidays, but there were always a ton of them at Christmas. Now, I make them for my my family.

These are delicious little griddle cakes that our whole family adores. Despite the looks of all the sugar sprinkled on top, (my kids helped with these) they’re not too sweet, but they are delicious. I usually make some with currants and some without.

Welsh Cakes Recipe

2 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 ½ teaspoon allspice (ground)

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup sugar

½ cup butter (room temperature)

1 egg

½ cup milk

¼ cup currants (optional)

Sift flour, baking powder, allspice, salt and sugar together in a bowl. Cut the butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or two knives. Stir the egg and milk together in a separate bowl. Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix well. Blend in the currants. Gather the dough into a ball and roll it out onto a floured board until it’s ¼ inch thick. Cut two inch rounds out of the dough and cook on a very hot griddle or frying pan until lightly browned. Flip. Sprinkle with sugar while warm.

Note: Griddle must be hot enough for water to dance on the surface before cooking the cakes.

And now for something that is yummy, but with zero calories, I have an excerpt from my latest release, Finding You. It’s a paranormal NA novella that’s available now for just 99 cents! I’m so in love with this cover.

Blurb:

A year after Tabby Nolan’s sister vanished from the Lake Michigan shore with her boyfriend, Liam, Tabby visits the spot where the two were last seen–and finds herself pulled into the crumbling world of Avalon.

Since his disappearance, Liam has been trapped in the mythical land, with no link to the world he knew. Now, their shared memories of Tabby’s missing sister are all they can cling to as Avalon dies around them.

But Tabby doesn’t want to be a replacement for her sister, and her growing attachment to Liam feels like a betrayal. As Avalon fades around them, Liam and Tabby must rely on each other–or be lost with the ancient kingdom forever.

Excerpt:

My chest ached at the pain in her eyes, and I felt like an asshole for kissing her in the first place. I’d put her in this position of feeling as if she was betraying Samara. Making her choose between me and the ghost of her sister. “Tabby…”

“Just kiss me. Please.” Her voice broke a little on that last word, and I couldn’t leave her hanging like that. Even though I was the cause of her anguish, I also wanted to heal it. Hoping I wasn’t going to make things worse, I leaned forward and kissed her again. Harder this time.

I wanted to chase away all the ghosts that haunted us. She lifted her hands to my neck, sliding her fingers through my hair at my nape, sending shivers of awareness crawling down my spine. She pulled me closer, and my body bumped against her legs which were still drawn up. She slowly parted them, and I inched nearer.

She traced the seam of my lips, coaxing me to open for her—not that it took much—and kissed me hungrily. There was a kind of desperation in her; it shimmered beneath her skin and called to the same in me. More than anything, I wanted to press her to the ground and feel her softness beneath me. I wanted to surround myself in her. Sink into her and never surface again. I knew I should hold back, and Christ, I tried. But she pulled me more strongly than anyone else ever had. Even Samara. The stab of guilt I expected was oddly absent.

I knew I could blame my response to Tabby on being alone for the last three years, and she would probably claim that’s what it was if she knew what I was thinking. But it wasn’t that. It was just her.

I slid my hand along her arm and over her shoulder, her skin silky beneath my fingertips as I stroked my thumb down the side of her neck. She trembled at my touch. Her hands settled on my shoulders, and she tugged me toward her as she lay back on the grass. Though I tried to tell myself not to, my body was in no mood to listen. Without making a conscious decision, I followed her down.

I bit back a groan at the sensation of her body cradling mine, her breasts pressed against my chest. Lifting my head, I stared down into her face. Her lips were slightly kiss-swollen and her eyes almost sleepy looking as she looked up at me. She’d never looked more beautiful.

She raised her hand and gently brushed my hair out of my eyes, her fleeting touch soft. Stretching toward me, she kissed along the side of my neck to skim her lips along my jaw, and I wished I’d bothered to shave this morning. The thought disappeared as she scraped her teeth across the sensitive spot where my neck curved into my shoulder. This time, I couldn’t hold the groan back if I tried. It slipped out, sounding ragged even to my own ears.

By commenting on this post you get 1 entry into the Blissemas grand prize for a Kindle Paperwhite stuffed with smut. For a list of rules and other Blissemas blogs please check http://blissemas.co.uk .

Before we get to the exciting bits, gather ’round my children, for I must tell you a tale.Once upon a time, I used to cross stitch like a mad fiend. Not unlike the way I knit now. *ahem* But anyway. I was super in love with a designer named Teresa Wentzler – she had magical designs. Maddening patterns. But I spent hours on them. I also spent hours on the TW bulletin board. Remember those? And a few other cross stitch boards, too. And while I was scoping out new patterns, fabrics and techniques, I met the coolest person. Her name was V.s., and we hit it off immediately. We emailed all the time, exchanged patterns and talked, talked, talked. I adored this woman to pieces. After a while, life became somewhat of a shit storm, and I fell into a pretty deep depression. I sort of drifted away from email, cross stitching and everything else. It was enough of an effort to drag myself through the day, let alone communicate meaningfully with anyone. We fell out of touch and email accounts were closed, addresses were lost and I didn’t realize the impact of that until I eventually, started clawing my way out of the gray. And that’s when I realized I had no idea where V.s. was or how to reach her.I googled. I stalked FB. I googled some more. Every year or so, I’d wash rinse and repeat, but nothing until last month. I got an email on my non-author FB account. IT WAS V.s. AND SHE’S WRITING EROTIC ROMANCE NOW!!! You guys, I was so damn excited! I can’t even begin to tell you! I’m so happy that we’re in touch again. And now, I want to introduce her to you, too. Because she’s awesome! And I want to tell you about her new release!First, the questions!

General Random Sorts of Questions

oWhat’s a typical day like for you?

I work full-time so I have the daily morning run-around of breakfast (and doing some quick author business), making lunches for hubby and me, and taking care of the pets before heading to work. I typically work an eight hour day, sometimes more. Then I’m home to make dinner and check in with my son to make sure he’s on track with his homework. I write or do author business in the early evening but try to shut down and read/listen books out loud with the fam to decompress, otherwise I have trouble sleeping. On the weekends, I shop and clean house with fam’s help, and cram in as much of writing as I can.

oWhat do you consider your greatest accomplishment?

It took a team effort, but I consider my marriage my greatest accomplishment. I met my husband in college, and we were married after graduation. We have weathered death of family members, health issues, several moves, layoffs, etc. and are still going strong. We celebrate our 20th anniversary next summer. Not bad for two “kids” with divorced parents and dysfunctional families.

oDo you have any collections?

I still have the comic books my brother and I collected as teenagers. It’s fun to look through them with my son.

I like ladybugs, so friends and family have given me items with ladybugs on them.

My eReader has a boat load of books on it, so I’d consider that a collection.

Finally, I have a ton of cross-stitch ‘stash,’ patterns, fabric, and fibers.

oWhat are your hobbies?

Cross-stitching is one of my favorite hobbies. I learned as a teenager, but took it up seriously after college. I love taking a blank piece of fabric and making something beautiful. It’s super relaxing, and I find it helps focus my mind when I’m plotting a story.

I also enjoy spending time outdoors, walking, bird watching, and just plain enjoying being out in the fresh air.

oAre there any skills you’d like to learn?

I’d like to learn to play the electric guitar. That’s what’s at the top of my head at the moment. I’m one of those people who love to learn new things.

oWhat’s your favorite word?

Awesome

oWhat’s your least favorite word?

Can’t

oWhat sound do you love?Laughter Music

oWhat sound do you hate?

Someone using a nail clipper or a fork scraping a plate. Anything metallic like that sets me on edge.

oWhat’s your favorite curse word?

Shit, but I’ll go with fuck when scared (e.g. by spider), hurt, or really pissed.

oWhat profession other than yours would you like to attempt?

I like what I do, except I’d want a job where I had more time to write. When I retire, I’d like to volunteer at a nature center.

oWhat profession would you not like to do?

I don’t think I could hack working in the sewers.

oDog or cat person?

Dog person. I like cats too but am allergic.

oCoffee or tea?

Both, but coffee more often.

oCity or country?

Country.

oStar Wars or Star Trek?

Both. However, I am a bigger Star Wars fan – of the original trilogy. We will not speak of the prequels.

oBuffy, Angel or Firefly?

All. I’m a huge Joss Whedon fan. I watched every single episode of all three of these series. I can’t even rank order them – it’s like picking a favorite child. Wow, I’m a geek. 😉

I used to be a total night owl, but now I have to get up at 5:30 for work so can’t stay up late like I used to. I’m not a fan of mornings either, so I call myself an evening person.

oProcrastinator or get things done early?

I try to get things done in a timely manner and am fairly organized, but I also procrastinate especially if it’s something I’m not thrilled to be doing. oIntrovert or Extrovert?

I lean towards being an Introvert, yet I’m very outgoing in my comfort zones and with friends.

oWhat do you like best about writing?

Creating something new that entertains readers.

oWhat do you like least?

The cycle of doubt is it good/not good or getting stuck mid story.

oDo you have a day job aside from writing?

Yes, I’m a Project Manager. It requires a lot of organization and communication both internally and with clients. I enjoy it but it doesn’t fulfill my creative side, so extremely happy I’m a writer, as well.

oIf you were a book, which book would you be – and why?

Wow, this was a tough one. I think I’d be Jane Eyre. I started out by humble means, survived some crazy times and people, and with quiet determination came out on top on my own terms. And I’m married to a guy who’s tall, mostly dark, and handsome. Rawr! 😉

oIf you were a song, which song would you be – and why?

“Somewhere I Belong” by Linkin Park. I connect with this song for the reasons mentioned above.

Book Related Questions

Hunter’s Mark is a multicultural mm romance, and it looks fabulous. I can’t wait to read it! Can you tell us what inspired the story?

Decadent Publishing has an open call for twisted fairytales. In order not to receive a hundred Cinderella stories, Decadent randomly assigned a story to each author who signed up for the challenge. I was assigned Grimm’s “The Skillful Huntsman.”

I folded elements from the original story into my own version but it’s largely my creation not a straight re-telling. As we like to say, “It’s not your mama’s Grimm.”

I’d like to hear about Hunter and Casey – can you share a bit?

Hunter is a foul-mouthed, street-smart master assassin who is also a wolf shifter. He uses the money from his jobs to help care for his mom and disabled sister. Although he’s a gun-for-hire, Hunter has a moral code. He will not kill innocents or shifters. Hunter is a hardcore badass, but he’s also funny, loyal, and very sexy.

Casey is a potter who lives in Eugene, Oregon. He was raised by his human adopted mother. He’s also a wolf shifter but didn’t know he was different until puberty and doesn’t know other shifters exist. He represses his wolf to stay safe. Casey is sweet and sassy. His default mode is being happy, and this ginger can be sexy as hell.

Can you tell us about any upcoming stories?

I recently contracted Sam’s Temptation with Decadent Publishing. It’s a sequel to The Giftbut can be read as a standalone. It’s a multicultural foodie romance set in Montana and is the first het romance I’ve submitted for publication. I’m starting the editing process soon.

I’ve also started writing the sequel to Hunter’s Mark. Its working title is Rex’s Mate and is centered on Hunter’s smartass best friend, Rex. I loved writing him in HM! And we’ll see a lot of Hunter and Casey too.

Artist Casey Smith lives a quiet life, under the radar of his enemies, until one fateful night he loses control and the astonishing image of a wolf racing down a suburban street splashes all over social media.

Hunter’s bullet never misses its target. The assassin seeks out and kills his prey with a clear conscience by following two simple rules: 1) Don’t kill innocents 2) Don’t kill shifters.

Realizing his latest assignment violates those rules, the hunter activates Princess Protocol and the assassin becomes the protector. Red hot attraction flares between the hit man and his former target. Can Hunter resist the sweet shifter in his care?

Excerpt:

He stepped closer to Casey’s stall but stumbled over something small and furry. The toe of one Birkenstock caught on a clump of grass as he attempted not to trample the little beast, and he ass-planted with said beast jumping onto his chest to give him a broad doggie smile.

His buddy laughed piss-your-pants-hard in his ear. Fuck a duck.

“Miss Priscilla!”

The target he’d worked so hard to observe remotely sank to the ground between his sprawled-out legs, peeling the tiny hairball off his chest and setting it on the ground.

“I’m so sorry! Are you okay?”

Big blue eyes fringed with long, pale lashes scanned his body while strong yet gentle hands moved over his ankles and legs, searching for an injury. Oh, a toucher. His wolf basked in the tactile attention. His breath hitched as those hands glided past his knees and skimmed his thighs.

Damn, he needed to get laid after this assignment.

“Oh, my, what a li’l sweetie. Look at those freckles! I wonder if he’s got them everywhere. I’d like to lick them,” Rex crowed in his ear.

He growled.

The other man chortled. “Possessive, much?”

He inhaled deeply, only to be slammed with the force of a Mack truck. Strawberries on a warm summer’s day and fresh-cut grass—shit, his target smelled delicious. He took another breath, and his brain reeled. He’s a wolf shifter, too? Fuck.

Casey’s brows furrowed. “Where are you hurt?”

He forced a smile. “I’m fine. No worries.”

Casey returned the smile, his wide and high beam combined with sparkling eyes. Hunter stared as warmth wrapped around him like a blanket. He had no ammo against such a happy, open expression. The guy freaking glowed.

About the Author:

V.S. Morgan has lived all over the US but calls Minnesota her home now. Her family includes her hubby, son, and a menagerie of pets.

She’s been writing stories since she could hold a pencil and dreams of happily ever afters – even for two hot men – because love knows no boundaries. V.S. writes MC/IR contemporary, paranormal, and suspense m/m and m/f with heart. She plans to branch into fantasy and sci fi romance, as well.

A Unique Magical, Erotic Novel.

When dreams haunt you in the most delicious ways and fate pulls you into destiny’s path, what can be done other than to accept and submit to it.

Can Iria truly get what she’s always dreamed of or will it always just remain a memory? Being a rare creature such as her with exceptional beauty and rarity of existence should be enough. Though, all she wants is her desire, her destiny… To be with a man—one man.

Are these dreams she’s having real? Could she really take on human form and become a Lady to be with the man she craves?

Dezso discovers a magical creature—a being of incredible light and peace. He is drawn to it again and again, and his feelings grow with every encounter. He carries a dark secret that he wishes never existed. The only thing that truly brings light upon his existence is the beauty that warms his heart but seems to only exist in his head—with dreams and visions of a magical woman, full of heartwarming light.

Will he ever know true love and happiness? Will he ever be able to lighten the weight and share his dark secret with another…?

Darkness is growing stronger, weakening the light and killing off what makes the world a beautiful place to live in. Enter a world of fantasy and dreams, passions and temptations. A world where dragons, unicorns, magic and mermaids really do exist.A world where love WILL conquer all!

My Lady, so perfect and pale, with such beauty and grace is a sensual goddess to be worshipped and treasured.

She is the treasure that I yearn to have as mine and I focus now solely on the change. I am not sure how much time passes when my power suddenly snaps back into me. I grind my teeth to keep from grunting from the impact. Surprised that Than has not sensed my power on the move, either that, or he has not shown me that he knows. I am also very pleased that he is so consumed with his search, that he does not realize what I have done. “Mmm…” Both Than and myself turn toward the feminine sound. I feel my eyes widen in surprise, but I quickly conceal it. It worked, from what I am able to see of her. I can only see her face and the pale upper flesh of her breasts. What lovely breasts they are. I feel my mouth water for a taste of her creamy globes, and my hands itch to feel their weight. The woman from my dreams kneels, nude within the heather, looking disoriented. Her hair is a tangled mess, partially covering her face. She does not seem to be able rise and stand solidly. Gravity currently appears to be her enemy. Observing her, I feel as if I am floating. Light and filled with air, like one of my Uncle’s magic bubbles when it floats up toward the sun. Higher and higher, drifting into bliss, and I find myself smiling. She glances up, sees me, and her mouth forms an ‘O’ of surprise. Her breathing becomes slightly erratic. It looks as if she is unable to catch a proper breath. I find myself moving toward her as though being pulled by some unknown force, completely captivated by the sight before me and unable to resist its call. Now, we only have eyes for each other. I feel everything else around us disappear. It is now just her and I, caught in a spell woven of lust and intense longing. I am lost within the depths of her soul-filled, pleading eyes. I move closer to answer their call when an annoying buzzing sound pulls me from the spell.

A.R. was born and raised in Bronx, NY and is the oldest daughter of two girls. She holds an Associate’s Degree in Computer Science and Information Technology, which was only briefly used. She’s a mother of two entertaining teen boys (as well as a lovely fawn Chihuahua, whom she considers her furry daughter.) She’s also a wife to a delightfully handsome and amazingly funny man-beast. She loves anything dragon and fantasy related. In her free time she enjoys exercising, writing, listening to music, hiking, cooking, dancing and reading. She also loves a great adventure in and out of a book! She writes to free her mind of its constant wondering and clutter. She thrives on the fact she can share some of it with readers that have the same passion for a great story.

She also loves to hear from her reader’s and chat away, so feel free to reach out to her any time.

Biography:I started off early in competitive sports and quickly got into football where I immediately adapted. I maintained football throughout my entire life. But my love for the gym and fitness didn’t start till sophomore year in high school. However, in my junior year I was in a terrible car crash where my head was crushed as I was ran over in the street by a truck after being catapulted at 80mph. I was airlifted to the hospital where I had emergency brain surgery and my heart failed. They immediately brought me back with an adrenaline shot where they presumed I would not live. I was in a coma two weeks. When I woke I had to re-learn everything including how to function and walk again.

In 2012 I went into training for NFL and now playing pro arena looking to keep pursuing football and modeling as well as motivate others and coach them in bettering their lives. Through fitness and motivational speaking.

Keep reading for a chance to win an Arthurian-themed DVD prize pack or a $25 Amazon gift card!

Surfacing

Bronwyn Green

A year after Tabby Nolan’s sister vanished from the Lake Michigan shore with her boyfriend, Liam, Tabby visits the spot where the two were last seen– and finds herself pulled into the crumbling world of Avalon.

Since his disappearance, Liam has been trapped in the mythical land, with no link to the world he knew. Now, their shared memories of Tabby’s missing sister are all they can cling to as Avalon dies around them.

But Tabby doesn’t want to be a replacement for her sister, and her growing attachment to Liam feels like a betrayal. As Avalon fades around them, Liam and Tabby must rely on each other– or be lost with the ancient kingdom forever.

Albion’s Circle: The Deepest Cut

Jessica Jarman

For nineteen years, Anna has been plagued by dreams of lives lived only in legend. Finally free from the family that believed her hopeless and worthless, she’s ready to start her life over—alone.

When Anna meets an enigmatic stranger claiming to be the legendary wizard Merlin, she is forced to question the very reality she’s struggled to accept. With the mythic figures from her dreams intruding on her waking life, Anna learns that she’s been reborn to fight an ancient evil alongside King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table.

Caught in an ages old conflict, Anna is the key to stopping a dark magic that will destroy the world—and Merlin wants to make sure that this time, Anna isn’t alone.

A Choice Fit For A Queen

Jenny Trout

writing as

Abigail Barnette

For perpetual overachiever Madison Lane, a summer studying Arthurian mythology in the Welsh countryside with professor Thomas Evans is a dream come true, and the adventure of a lifetime.

Of course, the enormous crush Madison developed on the professor after a semester of his lectures at U of M has absolutely nothing to do with her desire to learn more about the enduring legend of Camelot. At least, that’s what she’s telling her parents.

When Madison meets fellow student Rhys Crewe, sparks fly, throwing her plans for wild fling with Professor Evans completely out of whack—as do her unexpectedly complicated feelings for Thomas. With tales of Arthur and Lancelot haunting her every waking moment, Madison has to make the most difficult choice of her life.

Jessica Jarman is an author, blogger, and rather obsessive fangirl. Having grown up in Upper Michigan and currently living in Minnesota, she is a Midwestern girl through and through. And wouldn’t have it any other way.

When Jessica isn’t working to get words on the page, she passes the time with her amazing husband and four children, attempting to be crafty (and failing miserably), squeeing uncontrollably over her favorite shows or curling up with a good book.

Bronwyn Green is an author, blogger and compulsive crafter. She lives Michigan with her husband, two sons and three somewhat psychotic cats. When not frantically writing, she can be found helping in her youngest son’s classroom or binge-watching Netflix while working on her latest craft project.

Abigail Barnette (Jenny Trout) is a writer, blogger, and funny person. She has written award winning and bestselling erotic romance as Abigail Barnette. Writing as Jennifer Armintrout, she made the USA Today bestseller list with Blood Ties Book One: The Turning. Her novel AmericanVampire was named one of the top ten horror novels of 2011 by Booklist Magazine Online. She is a proud Michigander, mother of two, and wife to the only person alive capable of spending extended periods of time with her without wanting to strangle her. Visit her on twitter (@Jenny_Trout) or at her blog, jennytrout.com.

Today, I’m thrilled to have my dear friend, B.A. Tortuga on the blog. I love this woman to pieces – she’s kind, smart, funny, loyal, protective, gives amazing hugs and let’s not forget, a damn good writer. Also, she’ll kick the asses of anyone who needs kicking. What’s not to love?

She’s here to celebrate her new release: Terms of Release out with Dreamspinner Press! And part of her celebration is to giveaway a 20$ Amazon Gift Card! The contest will be open from now until midnight on March 31st. Eligible entrants need to comment and don’t forget to leave your email address so we can contact you if you win!

General Random Sorts of Questions

oWhat’s a typical day like for you?

Oh, goodness. I have typical weeks: Sunday I spend the day dealing with emails, writing blog posts, and cleaning my house. Monday is marketing and working on files. Tuesday is rewrite day. Wednesday and Friday are writing days. Thursday is my day off and the day I run errands. Saturday I run down for falafel at my favorite restaurant, Annapurnas, and come home to spend the day in the studio. 😀

I love wallowing in the sounds of my past. I miss home and I love knowing that Texas lives inside me.

oWhat do you like least?

Having to rework the sad parts. I lived through it once, damn it.

oDo you have a day job aside from writing?

I do some free-lance ebook conversion and some art on the side, but the bulk of my job is the writing.

oIf you were a book, which book would you be – and why?

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl. Why? Because at the core, I’m sugar-coated evil.

oIf you were a song, which song would you be – and why?

Blackbird by the Beatles – “all your life, you were only waiting for this moment to be free” – that’s me in a nutshell. Also, Beatles! Guitar! Acoustic! LOVE!

oHave you heard a song that reminds you of someone today? If so, what was it and why?

Oh, I played “Til My Last Breath” by Justin Moore just today! That’s the song we’re playing at our wedding.

Book Related Questions

Soooooooo…The Terms of Release looks like something that would make me cry. Did you cry while you were writing it?

SnortsI cried when I wrote it. I cried when I edited it. I cried the last time I read it. O.o

Which character do you identify most with and why?

Ellen Redding, Sage’s momma.

I’ll explain using textual aids:

He headed out about the time Ellen Redding came slamming through the door like a short round red-headed avenging angel.

“John Barnette, you lousy motherfucker! I covered your ass when you were shitfaced and drove your truck into my fence, I went to the doctor with SueAnn when Billy Cooper knocked her up, and I have never once bad-mouthed you, and you refuse to serve my son?”

Carrie opened her mouth, and Ellen pointed a finger at her. “Don’t you say a word, you sanctimonious whore. You think I won’t go to Brother Howard’s wife and tell her that you’re the feet sticking out from underneath the pulpit, you got another thing coming. You stuck-up pieces of shit, so scared of the goddamn sheriff and his brother that you treat a decent man like a pariah?”

Then she turned on Win. “And you!”

He held up his hands. “Hey. I defended him. Ask them. They’d be happy to rat me out.”

“Give me my goddamn order, and I’ll be going into Greenville for my business from now on.” She looked at each and every one of them in turn, staring them down. “And you’d best pray I don’t decide to start singing your secrets to everyone who’ll listen. This is a tiny town, and my family’s had its skeletons pranced around this place like prize ponies. Y’all so much as breathe hard on my son and there will be hell to pay, you mark my words.”

Johnny stood there like he was frozen, but his cashier, Dan, started loading up the order, never saying a word. Only Win knew that Dan had a couple of misdemeanor drug charges on his record. Maybe Dan knew how Sage felt.

She handed over a credit card and paid the bill. “I have my truck. Are any of you assholes going to help me load three hundred pounds of feed, or are you going to sit there with your teeth in your mouths?

What the hell are cutting horses?

Grins Pricy damned well-trained beasts.

😉

They’re usually American Quarter horses and you use them to cull cattle from a herd and to keep them separated. When you train, like Sage is, you’re training mainly for competition, as opposed to working cow horses, who are used for culling cattle for castration/vaccination/branding. The big thing with a good cutting horse is cow sense, and there’s a bunch of arguing on whether that can be taught.

I lean toward no.

And before I forget, I need to share the blurb for Terms of Release with you guys!

They say a man can always come home. So after doing hard time, Sage Redding heads to his family’s northeast Texas ranch to help his ailing daddy with the cutting horses.

Adam (Win) Winchester is a county deputy and the cousin of one of the men killed in the incident that sent Sage to prison for almost a decade. While Win’s uncles, Jim and Teddy, are determined to make Sage and the entire Redding family pay for their loss, Win just figures Sage has paid his dues and maybe needs a friend. Maybe he needs more than a friend. In fact, Win’s counting on it.

No one’s denying Sage is an ex-con who went to prison for manslaughter. Regardless of the love he has for his father, he’s returned knowing things will likely go badly for him. Maybe a man can always come home, but he may not be able to stay.

The internet is a pretty magical place. I’ve had the opportunity to meet some of the greatest people, and one of them happens to be the super adorable A.R. Von! She’s one of the sweetest people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and she kindly allowed me to interview her and she’s giving away a copy of her brand new ebook book, Wunder! So please leave a comment and a valid email address. If you’d prefer not to leave an address on my blog, please comment on the blog then send the email address to me at brownyn@brownyngreen.com with A.R. Von in the subject heading. A winner will be drawn at 7pm, Friday, March 8th.

How did your writing path evolve?

I’ve always loved writing from when I was young; even just jotting down nonsense that popped into my head or thoughts of my day (or a boy crush) in my journal(s). I wrote poems for my mother every chance I had. I don’t recall if they were all that great. I DO remember most of them based on the rhythm of “Roses are red…” lol- What brought me to bring Wunder to life was a ‘request’ for writers to submit a zombie story for an anthology on Halloween to help raise money for Diabetes, it caught my eye and had me thinking. I LOVE scary movies and always had fun watching zombies dragging their feet letting us know they wanted “BRAINS”. I did not want to go that way though. Not everyone enjoys gore like I do. I needed to do something different, that I’ve never seen, heard of or read. So I wrote Wunder (Originally titled “Because I Am”). I had it sitting around on my desk; just staring at me for some months and finally an author friend of mine (the one and only Leanore Elliot) pushed me, really hard. She told me how good it really was and to put it out there and share it with everyone. Now here it is. A start to a series that I had the most amazing time writing and am even more excited to continue.

What type of research do you do for your books?

It depends. For some I only make sure of spelling and word usage, others I look up origins, background, language and things of that sort. I have a TON of books at my disposal. It also depends is any research is needed for what’s brewing in my mind. I’ve found myself mostly relying on what’s in my head.

From what or where do you derive the most inspiration for your stories?

Deep within my heart & mind.

What are you working on at the moment?

I’m working on two things right now. The next in the Wunder series/serial and a short for a WOCA anthology (doing edits now). It’s nothing at all like Wunder. It’s more “based on a true story” and a bit emotional. I’m unsure of its release date as of yet, but I’m sure updates will post on the site: http://writingoutchildabuse.wordpress.com/origin/ .

What do you like best about being a writer? What do you like least?

What I like best is I get to allow my imagination run wild/free (which is normal) but the kicker is I get to share it with others to enjoy instead of keeping it all to myself. What I like the least so far… When I draw a blank, get stuck and stare at my computer screen at the flicker of the pointer wanting, no needing to strangle it (I’m normally not a violent person) he he.

What would you do if you weren’t a writer?

If I was not writing and doing what I always dreamed of doing. I’d probably be in the Army, Navy or Marines. Most likely a drill Sargent, training many to be their best. Or in reality, I’d be bartending like I’ve done for over 16 years. One of the best jobs ever!

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not writing?

I love to exercise, hike, dance, listen to music, read, write reviews (I know it’s still writing, but it relaxes me), paint some crafty things, and dream. When I’m not doing that, I’m spending time with my family, learning about the newest video games my boys are playing and “learning the ropes” of Magic (the card game).

Of all of the characters you’ve created, who is your favorite and why?

So far, Wunder. She’s bad ass and someone I can/would look up to if she was out here in the real world.

Do you find it difficult to keep love/sex scenes fresh and interesting?

Actually, they are the easiest part. It is a known fact that if you are writing, write what you know. I know me some good lovin’ 😉

What genre of books least appeals to you and why?

Hmm, I’d say Crime fiction. It just does nothing for me.

Do you listen to music when you write or do you need quiet? If you listen to music – what kind?

OMG! I have to have the music on. Writing or not. Anyone that visits my home will tell you it’s always on. I listen to and enjoy all but country music. My current favs are The Kills, Scars on Broadway, Static-X, Gotye, Florence and the Machines, The White Stripes, Death Cab for Cutie, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Innerpartysystem, Skrillex, a majority of old school hip hop, some freestyle, Deftones, Metric, Black Keys, Yael Naim, dance music… I have an enormous list!What makes a man sexy?

His eyes and sense of humor.Do you family and friends know you write erotic romance – if so, how have they reacted?

Yes, they know. Well those that are a part of my life. I’ve had no reactions as of yet. Just my hubby. LoL- He says “OMG, my wife writes porn! So cool!”

What’s your favorite food?

Is hot sauce considered a food? I LOVE Frank’s Red Hot! On a more serious note. I love chicken. I’ve yet to find a chicken dish I did not enjoy 🙂Do you have any bad habits?

I was a smoker for many years. I quit four months ago and have no plans on ever looking back. If you were stranded on a desert isle, what five things would you want to have with you?

Water, a man (or two), my ereaders, tooth brush and music (even if it’s just an instrument). Who needs food?Do you have any pet peeves?

I despise bullies, judgmental people (I feel no one has the right) and cruelty (of any way shape or form).

What do you like about where you live?

It’s quiet, peaceful and surrounded by nature. Coming from the Bronx and all of the noise… It’s a wonderful change.

If you could travel back in time, would you? If so, what time period would you visit and why?

Oh! I want to go back to early prehistoric times. I would love to see what it was like and if humans were really as animalistic as I’ve heard them to be. I also was to try and fly on a pterodactyl back 🙂 Weee!

What’s the best book you’ve read lately?

Hmm, I’ll go with Aura by M.A. Abraham. It was a different type of reading experience for me and a very enjoyable one.

In October, I had the privilege of meeting the delightful, not to mention, drop dead gorgeous, A.M. Griffin. We were seated next to each other at the RomantiCon book signing and I had an absolute blast with her, so I’m thrilled to be hosting her here today.

She’ll be giving away a ten dollar Amazon gift certificate to a lucky commenter, so please sit back and get to know A.M. Griffin and don’t forget to leave a comment between now and noon on December 20th. And definitely don’t forget to check out her first ever release, Dangerously Mine from Ellora’s Cave – I know I’m going to!

Bio:

I’ve always written stories. I should rephrase that to say I’ve always started to write stories. I would get to the third or fourth chapter and stop, become disinterested and move on. This is the first time that I actually finished a story to the end. I wanted to put this one down as well, but a little voice told me to get over the hump (which I now know is writers block) and keep going. It was an eye opening experience to say the least, but well worth it. Once it was done I had a sense of completeness. Now I can’t seem to stop writing.

What type of research do you do for your books?

That’s the beauty of writing sci-fi. Little or no research is required. All the info comes from my imagination (which might actually be scary). For Dangerously Mine I had to look up fighting techniques and weapons which gave me a sense of how badass Eva would have to be in order to wield a bow staff and also how lethal she would have to be if she was used to throwing knives or stars. Every now and then I would ask my crit partners if a scenario (mainly regarding different planets) made sense or was it even plausible and the answer would be, “this is your imagination, if it makes sense to you it’ll make sense to us.”

Tell us about your upcoming releases?

Dangerously Mine is a story about finding love and a new life after a catastrophic event. Because this is a sci-fi story the catastrophic event just so happens to be an alien invasion. This is not a story where she’s plucked from her bedroom by a hunky alien who wants her to be his life mate. Eva has gone through a lot, she’s seen loved ones murdered and she’s been plucked away from Earth as the alien invaders rain devastation all around her. She’s lost her closest friend (someone she has promised to take care of) and she’s sold into slavery. By the time I introduce Taio (her hero) I want the readers to be rooting for her. Now mind you, the readers are going to have to keep rooting for them because they’re both bull-headed characters who don’t know a good thing if it smacks them in the face.

What are you working on at the moment?

I finished the follow-up book to Dangerously Mine. I just have to clean it up some. In this book we learn more about Princess Sa’Mya who is a character introduced in Dangerously Mine and why she’s such a bitch, but we also get to meet Kane. I love Kane and Sa’Mya together. I think he’s the perfect guy for her. I can’t wait to release this on the masses.

What do you like best about being a writer? What do you like least?

I love having the opportunity and outlet to create different characters and different worlds. In my mind there’s nothing better than being able to put my imagination to pen and paper. In saying that, as a writer you put yourself out there. I understand that not everyone is going to ‘get’ me and that’s ok. But it would be awesome if everyone did, then I could rule the world (just kidding, sorta).What do you enjoy doing when you’re not writing?

I love reading. I’m a reader first and writer second. I haven’t been able to read that much this past year but that hasn’t stopped me from buying books. I’m 20+ books behind right now. As soon as I can stop my characters from invading my head, I’ll knock some of those books off of my ‘to be read’ list.

Of all of the characters you’ve created, who is your favorite and why?

They’re like my children so I can’t just claim one. But if I had too…I love Eva from Dangerously Mine. I kinda worked her in the second book that I finished and the third book that I’m working on. She’ll always have a special place in my heart.

Do you find it difficult to keep love/sex scenes fresh and interesting?

I’m working on my third book and so far I haven’t come across that issue. When it comes to sex my characters have a mind of their own. So far, my new characters are avoiding the bed and its ok with me.

What genre of books least appeals to you and why?

I can’t read anything too serious, like inspirational books (yuck).

Do you listen to music when you write or do you need quiet?

I don’t really listen to music while I’m writing. I do watch or have the television going most times.What makes a man sexy?

I love a man’s walk. The way his clothes fit him. Sometimes a look will even send me over the edge. But I think most importantly a sense of humor is sexy.

Do your family and friends know you write erotic romance – if so, how have they reacted?

All of my family and a select few of my friends know. I come from a very cool and open family. My mother is really proud and excited for me (she loves me). My grandmother wanted to buy my book for her sister. I think I hurt her feelings when I told her absolutely not. I told her it’s an erotic romance and she couldn’t read it, ever. Ever, ever.What’s your favorite food?

Macaroni and cheese (ummm…)Do you have any bad habits?

I don’t think so. I’m not really consistently bad. I’m just bad.If you were stranded on a desert isle, what five things would you want to have with you?

My hubby, three kids and a knife for hunting. We’d be fine. I’d whittle us some spears.

Do you have any pet peeves?

Way too many to mention here. People with hangnails top that list and it only gets worse…What do you like about where you live?

I’ve lived in different parts of the country and although I hate the winter, I love my home state. We are a great bunch of open minded people with our own special gripes, but I think if it was us against another state, say against Ohio or Indiana, we would mob them. Yeah, we’re feisty northerners.If you could travel back in time, would you? If so, what time period would you visit and why?

Uh, no. I like the comforts of hot water, microwaves, technology and adequate healthcare.

What’s the best book you’ve read lately?

I read The Darkest Seduction by Gena Showalter and now I’m totally hooked on that series. I also discovered Nalini Singh not too long ago. Archangel’s Blood made me a forever loyalist.What was your favorite childhood storybook?

I can’t ever remember reading anything fun when I was younger. Odd.

Pirate of ninja?

Ninja baby. In my head I’m skinny, wearing all black and can scale walls.Coffee or tea?

Coffee with lots of cream and sugar.Angel or Spike?

Angel. Spike wasn’t all that cute. He reminded me of a bad Billy Idol imitation.Mal or The Doctor?

Huh?

Print book or ebook?

ebook

You can find A.M. Griffin at the links below. Be sure to check her awesome self out! Following the links are the blurb and excerpt for Dangerously Mine.

After aliens invade and conquer Earth, Eva is transported to a distant slave trading planet. Escape and freedom are her only priority, but none of her martial arts training prepared her for what she faces. She finds herself enslaved to the warrior King Taio. Eva’s drawn to this sexy alien male who ignites her heart and body.

Taio is disgusted with the idea of owning a slave—until now. From the moment he sees her, he knows Eva is his for the taking. Torn between lust and duty, Taio knows nothing will stop him from protecting his little warrior.

Excerpt:

Eva pressed her face against the rectangular window in the training room, watching the lights of unknown origin whiz by. She stood in one of the training rooms Ship had sequestered for her. After lunch, she felt more than a little stir-crazy. She needed to work off some of the tension that coiled around her muscles. It took all her strength not to get up and leave the dining hall while Taio’s gaze bored through her back. Did he really have to keep sending those smoldering looks her way?

His lavender eyes locked on her whenever she entered a room. The intensity of his gaze made her body respond in a way that she didn’t want it to. No one would ever consider her to be a coward. But there was something about the way he looked at her that had her frightened.

And that tattoo on his face. Sometimes it intrigued her and other times it made her scared. Who would allow such an intricate drawing to be completed? The pain alone would have been enough to deter any sane person from getting it, alien or not.

His body was a whole different story. It was downright criminal to have a body like his. The man had a body that would make a nun want to sin. He was tall, unbelievably so, but he was all rippling muscle.

This vessel was full of men and the only one who would give her a second glance was Taio. The thought should have given her some type of comfort. Instead of beating off twenty men, there was only one she would have to worry about. There was no mistaking his intentions. Every time he looked her way, it was as if he were willing her clothes to fall from her body. Her only counterattack so far was to stay away from him.

But she did have to agree with Ship, being under the care of Taio was for the best right now. She was fed, the dining hall was open around the clock, which was a plus. Oftentimes she found herself standing in front of the computer, requesting the buro flank with nitlick soup after everyone else was fast asleep. These were the closest thing to Earth food she could find. They had the same taste as chicken and tomato soup.

She was finally clean. Although she would have loved to feel the caress of running water on her skin again, the ionized shower hit the spot. She had clothes, which, although they were tight, were at least clean. And most of all, she didn’t feel her safety was in any type of jeopardy, not at the moment.

She wanted to find Ally, but she had to face the hard facts.

She was far away from home.

In an alien world.

No money whatsoever.

Nowhere to go.

And alone.

Finally, pulling herself away from the window, she pulled a training bag from the corner to start her workout. Hand-to-hand combat always made her feel primal, the main reason she loved it so much.

Within minutes, her training suit clung to her body, the lightweight material not constricting her movements at all. Perspiration covered her from head to toe, her once tied-back hair hanging wet and loose around her. Her muscles thrived under the workout, coming alive once again.

Heavy breathing behind her caught her off guard. She flipped away, landing in a fighting stance facing the intruder.

Taio stood in the doorway, watching. He gave a curt nod her way, the acknowledgement doing nothing to make her feel relaxed.

“You have good skills, Eva.” He hooked his thumbs in the waist of his pants and leaned on the doorway.

Her name never sounded better.

“Thank you.” She relaxed and straightened, her eyes still watching him. This was his first time speaking to her since their ill-fated first encounter.

She didn’t dare move closer, especially since she still didn’t know his intentions. She didn’t move away either, fearing he would view that as a sign of weakness. So she stood her ground, her body betraying her in the worst way. Her heart sped up a little and her breathing became more labored. Now she found her nipples hardening as her name rolled off his tongue.

I know trouble when I see it.

Eva willed her body to fight against whatever “mojo” he was throwing at her.

Taio walked into the room and took a sword off a rack on the wall. He began flexing it, testing its weight. The gesture caused his arm and chest muscles to ripple with each movement.

Jesus.

“Who taught you fighting moves?” he asked.

“My sensei, he lived back home.”

“Earth,” he said as a statement, rather than a question.

“Yes, Earth. Ann Arbor, Michigan, more specifically.”

She eyed the weapons on the wall. She was trained to use various fighting weapons—sais, kamas, knives, nunchakus, bo staffs and swords. She could show him a thing a two.

She walked over to the rack and took another sword off the wall.

Shit!

It weighed a ton! No wonder he smirked when she picked it up. Even though she strained to hold it in both hands, she made sure not to let him know. She would give anything to smack that look right off his face. Instead, she concentrated hard on not dropping the sword. She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction. She dared not try to maneuver it as he had.

“A male taught you?” He sounded surprised.

“Yes. Thirteen Earth years of training.” Taio laughed and shook his head in disbelief. “It’s not unusual on my planet,” she said. “A male can teach a female how to fight or even a female can teach a male.”

He laughed harder and shook his head. “There could never be such a thing on my world.”

She turned away. “I earned a black belt, first Dan in Kyokushin Karate. On Earth I’m considered to be a great fighter.”

“Your people did not fare well in the war against the Loconuist. The fighting techniques of your species mean nothing to me.”

Ouch.

If the sword in her hands wasn’t so heavy, she would have swung it at him.

“You were captured by the Loconuist and the Tresdonians almost killed you.”

She shrugged. “But they didn’t.”

He smirked. “Because I saved you.”

“Thanks, but I can take care of myself.”

“It doesn’t matter. You are my responsibility now. You are my slave.”

Her eyes, squinting and cold, fixed on his. “Ship told me those assholes on that planet gave me to you. I think you got cheated. I’m not a slave. Not yours or anyone else’s.”

“If this arrangement does not suit you, I could turn the vessel around and give you back to the Tresdonians.” He turned from her and put the heavy sword back on the wall rack.

Her heart began pounding in her chest. He wouldn’t… “No. I’m not going back there.” She held her sword tightly in her grasp.

“Then you are my slave.” He stalked slowly toward her. His eyes locked on hers.

“No.” She backed away from him.

This cannot happen.

“You are mine.” He took another step toward her. “You will need to get used to the idea.”

“Never.”

He stopped his advancement. They stood facing each other. Her breathing came out in deep and heavy breaths. Her heart thumped in her chest.

Abruptly, he turned and walked from the room. She blinked at the empty doorway. The cold surface of the wall was against her back. She held the sword close to her chest, shielding her body. She stayed there until her arms shook from the sword’s weight.